"It is incredibly horrible to see a catastrophe of this size hit a people who have been suffering from extreme poverty, violence and unrest for so many decades," Jolie -- who has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations since 2001 -- said in a statement.

Pitt -- who, along with Jolie, has been a longtime supporter of Doctors Without Borders -- added, "We understand the first response is critical to serve the immediate needs of countless people who are now displaced from their homes, are suffering trauma, and most require urgent care."

Earlier on Wednesday, Pitt, 46, and Jolie, 34, said they were "devastated by the news" and pledged their support.

In a statement, the couple said, "We will work closely with our good friend Wyclef Jean to support the humanitarian efforts on the island and help those who have been injured and left without homes and shelter."